ECTs
Our ECT programme is facilitated by Thames South and University College London. ECTs are supported through their induction year by a mentor and progress is overseen by the Assistant Principal. A comprehensive programme of training, observations and lesson walks supports ECTs through this vital year. ECTs are given the opportunity to observe more experienced staff across the Sixth Form to share their excellent practice. Ten-day school placements take place in the summer term with our partner schools to enable ECTs to gain experience across other sectors and to achieve fully qualified status.
Staff employed by the Sixth Form via other routes – eg post compulsory qualifications, or unqualified pending School Direct applications – are also supported as part of this programme.
ECTs are encouraged to meet with fellow ECTs from a range of schools, visit other schools and undertake small-scale action research to inform their practice and enhance their professional development.
An ECT +1 programme is also in place for post-ECT staff at an early stage of their career to engage in professional learning and to help prepare for aspiring leadership programmes. Development of the teacher as ‘learner’ will be a central focus of this programme.
“As an ECT at Christ the King, both the subject and ECT mentors were extremely supportive and offered an extensive training programme throughout all stages of the academic year. This programme not only provided individual and tailored teaching advice, but also more holistic professional development throughout areas such as curriculum, pastoral care, legislation and assessment. As a Christ the King Sixth Forms wide programme, ECTs from all three sites meet regularly and this provides a valuable opportunity for collaborative networking and sharing good practice.
After completing my ECT at Christ the King, I was promoted to the Cross-site Functional Skills Maths Coordinator, working closely with colleagues and developing the scheme of work and lesson resources. After a successful year I was again promoted to the Cross-site Maths Coordinator”.
David Meechan
Cross-site Maths Coordinator
“As a new teacher it is difficult to adjust to a new environment. At CTK, the support I have received has been really amazing from all the staff, especially my mentor and head of department. The UCL programme has helped me develop into a better teacher by incorporating case studies into our study weeks to then discuss with our mentors.”
Sawdah Hassan-Adde
teacher of science
“CTK has really helped me develop my teaching and have encouraged me to continue trying new ideas. The support I have been given from my mentor and fellow colleagues has been amazing and really helped throughout the ECT years. There is always someone who is there to help and encourage you throughout your developing teaching years. The confidence I have gained is incredible and will help me throughout my teaching.“
Bethan Eastgate
teacher of psychology and Sociology